Pekanbaru Sets World Record with 1.1 km Durian Sticky‑Rice Cake Festival

RRI.CO.ID, Pekanbaru - Pekanbaru has etched its name in history with the world’s longest durian sticky‑rice cake festival, a 1.1‑kilometer culinary showcase that drew thousands of visitors and earned recognition from the Indonesian World Records Museum (MURI).

Staged along Jalan Jenderal Sudirman during the city’s Car Free Day on Sunday, June 21, 2026, the event was part of Pekanbaru’s 242nd anniversary celebrations.

MURI’s Customer Relation Manager Lutfi Syah Pradana announced the record after on‑site verification, declaring the festival the longest of its kind not only in Indonesia but globally.

Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho said the turnout far exceeded expectations, with crowds flocking from across Riau, Sumatra, and even Jakarta. “The enthusiasm was extraordinary and shows strong public support for this initiative,” he noted, as quoted by InfoPublik.

The festival, centered in front of the Public Service Mall, was organized through collaboration between the municipal administration and local micro, small, medium entreprises (MSMEs), in line with this year’s anniversary theme of KolaborAksi.

By spotlighting the traditional Malay delicacy, officials aimed to promote local culinary heritage while strengthening small‑business competitiveness and creative economy growth.

Kesambi Subdistrict Head Eko Budiyanto emphasized the cultural symbolism of the dish, traditionally cooked slowly over clay fire pits. “Serabi teaches that something simple can become special if made with diligence. That’s the philosophy we want to promote,” he said.

The record‑breaking achievement now stands as a symbolic gift for Pekanbaru’s 242nd anniversary, reinforcing the city’s position as a hub of cultural and culinary activity in Riau Province. ***